Why many children are still out of school

The main purpose of this paper was to present a causal mechanism that would explain the phenomenon behind dropout among primary students. Using a Time Series design, the study analysed a nine-year series of multivariate data using advanced methodological methods such as factorial analysis, regression analysis, anomalous detection and path analysis the study specifically tried to identify relationships among and the variables and determine which factors are directly or indirectly linked to dropout. Results of the analyses showed that child labor was the strongest determinant of dropout while indirect factors were primary completion, enrolment, employment and government expenditure. Although GDP was not found to be a strong factor it appeared to have a direct impact on the other variables that influenced dropout. This may therefore imply that low economy could be the unseen phantom behind dropout radiating to an array of other factors. Child labor may just be an outward manifestation of a serious economic problem which, if not resolved could lead more children to the periphery; joining the ranks of child labor instead of learning inside the classroom.